what crocus

Discussion in 'Plants: Identification' started by psungee, Oct 18, 2011.

  1. psungee

    psungee Member

    Messages:
    8
    Likes Received:
    0
    Location:
    Canada
    I read that the Crocus sativa is sometimes confused with it's toxic cousin, Colchicum autumnale. Can someone identify this particular crocus for me ... or offer tips on how to identify which it is? Thanks!
     

    Attached Files:

  2. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

    Messages:
    21,287
    Likes Received:
    799
    Location:
    WA USA (Z8)
    This is the crocus. Definitely.
     
  3. psungee

    psungee Member

    Messages:
    8
    Likes Received:
    0
    Location:
    Canada
    Thanks, Ron B! Would you know (for my own knowledge) what would differentiate it from it's toxic relative?
     
  4. saltcedar

    saltcedar Rising Contributor 10 Years

    Messages:
    4,398
    Likes Received:
    2
    Location:
    Austin, Tx
    Colchicum autumnale typically has no foliage, white to pink stigmas present when in bloom.
    Crocus sativa is leafy with 1 to 3 stigmas, inch-long deep orange-red that don't branch.
     
  5. psungee

    psungee Member

    Messages:
    8
    Likes Received:
    0
    Location:
    Canada
    Thank you! So if I understand correctly, if it's purple (ish) and has long, orangy-red stigmas, they're edible. Aces - appreciate the knowledge, folks!
     

Share This Page